Gyles Brandreth announced as keynote speaker at 2026 GCA Conference
Writer, broadcaster, former MP and Government Whip Gyles Brandreth has been revealed as a keynote speaker at the Garden Centre Association’s (GCA) 2026 Annual Conference, taking place at Carden Park Chester from January 25-28.
Well-known for his colourful jumpers and quick wit, Gyles is also Chancellor of the University of Chester and a familiar face on TV and radio, including This Morning, QI and Just a Minute.
Ben Harrison, GCA Chairman Elect, said: “Gyles is a national treasure, an entertaining speaker and a brilliant storyteller. We’re thrilled he’ll be joining us as part of our 60th anniversary year celebrations.”
Gyles has appeared on stage in Twelfth Night and The Importance of Being Earnest, written seven Oscar Wilde detective novels, and published best-selling diaries, an autobiography, and royal biographies. His podcasts include Something Rhymes With Purple, The Commonwealth Poetry Podcast and Rosebud.
He will deliver his talk, The Seven Secrets of Happiness, on Tuesday, January 27. GCA CEO Peter Burks said: “We’re sure Gyles will bring humour and inspiration, sending us away smiling ahead of spring.”
The GCA represents more than 200 garden centres nationwide, helping members raise standards in customer service, plant quality and reliability. To book tickets for the 2026 Conference, visit www.gca.org.uk